A Hate Incident in LA

An Arab yelled at me, my wife and our four kids: “I hope your children die! Just like you’re killing children in Gaza!”

Last Friday night, instead of having my usual guests for a festive Friday night dinner in my home, I had three compassionate Los Angeles Police Department officers standing in my kitchen explaining the difference between a “hate crime” and a “hate incident.” My family was the victim of the latter.

We were walking home in Los Angeles after a Friday night dinner at a friend’s house, dressed nicely for Shabbat, easily identifiable as a Jewish family. We waited for a light to change on a corner of a major intersection when a black Mercedes SUV pulled up alongside us. Four Middle-Eastern men in their 20s were in the car. The one in the back rolled down his window and yelled, “Free Palestine!”

I immediately turned to face them, knowing I was in danger, remembering the rabbi who was gunned down in Miami on his way to synagogue. This was the beginning of either a hate crime or a hate incident, but either way, hate was coming our way. We all know too well that “Free Palestine” means free Palestine from every Jew. As they chant “Free Palestine, from the river to the sea,” that doesn’t mean they want a two-state solution — they want Hitler’s Final Solution and a Jew-free Middle East.

We all stood silently in utter horror and fear.

Then this Arab young man opened the car door, stepped onto the street and yelled at me, my wife and four young children: “I hope your children die! Just like you are killing children in Gaza!”

We all stood silently in utter horror and fear.

Then he got back in the Mercedes and they drove off. We were in a state of complete shock. My 10-year-old daughter immediately started crying and couldn’t stop. She kept yelling, “I’m scared.” My 5-year-old daughter asked me why they want her to die. My other kids were too rattled to say anything.

I was stunned that I can no longer feel safe walking on Shabbat with my family in my city. I kept reading about all the anti-Semitism all over Europe, but here in these United States? That my innocent children had to be exposed to this level of anti-Semitism has shaken me to my core. These people weren’t just yelling “Jew bastard” as I’d experienced growing up in the Bronx; they were wishing my children dead, right to their angelic faces. This was beyond appalling.

I couldn’t believe that they were filled with such hatred and ignorance, and that someone could go as far as wishing my children dead and blaming me for the death of children in Gaza. Me?! I’ve been killing children in Gaza? I’m a comedian. The only killing I’m personally responsible for is the killing of the audiences I’ve performed for. And the only “bombing” I’m guilty of are those rare sets where I don’t quite connect with the crowd.

Like any good, moral person, I hate to see death and destruction anywhere. As we are taught in Proverbs, “Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles.” I would have loved to have shared with them that I’m against war and the loss of innocent life. But they didn’t want to hear it. They wanted to spew hatred. I would’ve gladly had an intellectual discussion with them about the fact that all of humanity should join together against terrorists like Hamas and ISIS (Islamic State in Iraq and Syria), who are slaughtering innocents, but they didn’t want to listen.

I would’ve been happy to debate them on the fact that Israel has a right to defend itself against a terrorist group who is firing a barrage of rockets at every citizen. Or that had Hamas accepted the first cease-fire, no children in Gaza would’ve been killed. Or about their firing from hospitals and schools and other densely populated areas in order to get the civilian casualty numbers higher, gaining Israel worldwide condemnation. That the leaders of Israel have called every innocent civilian death “a great tragedy,” while the leaders of Hamas consider every innocent civilian death “a great victory.”

Or that Gaza is no longer “occupied.” Or the fact that the definition of the word “occupation” doesn’t apply to a country that won land in defensive wars. Wars that were attempts at the total annihilation of Israel. Wars that were thrust upon them before any “blockades” or “settlements” or “occupation” or any of the other made-up words that are now used to justify killing Jews. Or that much of the suffering of the Palestinian people is a direct result of their elected leadership, just as the suffering of Arabs in most Middle-Eastern countries is at the hands of their oppressive regimes. That the Arabs who enjoy real freedom, including freedom to worship any sect of any religion, freedom to speak their minds, freedom to be gay, are the Israeli-Arabs living in Israel. Or simply educate them on the 3,000-year history of our people in our tiny homeland and our willingness and desire to live in peace with our Arab neighbors.

But they didn’t want a debate. They just wanted to hate. They wanted to terrorize my family and they did. But as I explained to my crying and visibly shaken kids as we walked home, “They said they wanted us dead — now imagine living in Israel where every day they don’t just say it, they actually attempt to kill all of the Israeli children, and tragically just today they murdered a 4-year-old Israeli boy with a Hamas rocket.” Not the most comforting words to young, rattled children, but now that their innocence was shattered, I felt that it was important for them to understand the reality of the world they are living in.

The LAPD officers who were dispatched to my house were extremely kind and compassionate. In fact, the first officer who showed up was Jewish and very comforting to my children. I, too, was comforted by him and by the knowledge that there were Jewish men and women protecting the citizens of Los Angeles. (At least more than the one Jewish officer I heard about in Malibu, at whom Mel Gibson directed his anti-Semitic tirade.) This officer really put my kids at ease and told them not to be scared. It also didn’t hurt that he told us that he and his wife enjoyed my work, especially when I’ve hosted the Chabad Telethon.

Then two more officers showed up to take the report. It was explained to us that it would’ve been a hate crime if they had said they were going to kill us, instead of merely hoping we got killed, which makes it a hate incident. Try explaining that differentiation to a 10-year-old girl who was just told to die.

My kids know the harsh reality that just because they were born into a Jewish family they’re subject to death threats.

I feel so sad that my children’s innocence was lost at that very moment. That they were unwillingly and instantaneously initiated into the “We Hate You Because of WHAT You Are” club. That they now know the harsh reality that just because they were born into a Jewish family they are targets and subject to death threats. That they can be blamed and scapegoated for things they have nothing to do with. That they are hated.

I can write a 50-page piece about where all the hatred comes from. There are too many reasons to point fingers at. The media, (I’m talking to you CNN, The New York Times, etc.), who instead of reporting on every single rocket fired into Israel, chooses to focus on every civilian casualty of this war, instigated and perpetuated by Hamas. Constantly providing the numbers of the dead, instead of the number, 11, which is the number of cease-fires Hamas has broken, thereby causing all of this death and destruction. Repeatedly displaying images of dead civilians without any of the context that many of the dead are terrorists and that any real civilian casualties were victims of Hamas’ double war crimes of firing rockets at innocent civilians while using their innocent civilians as human shields. Or that a number of casualties include civilians who were killed by errant Hamas rockets.

This is what fuels the fire and allows people to think they now have the right to wish death upon my children.

I can blame my fellow “comedian” Russell Brand who has the audacity to say that Hamas is firing “harmless’ rockets. Harmless?! Tell that to the family of the 4-year-old Israeli boy who was murdered by a “harmless” Hamas rocket.

The world is buying into this propaganda. They’re allowing the terrorists to win this media intifada. They are actually listening to celebrities like Javier Bardem and Roger Waters using the word “genocide” to describe Israel’s actions toward the Palestinian people, when the only genocide occurring in the Middle East is by folks in the Bashar Assad regime, which murdered 170,000 innocents, or in ISIS, which is murdering innocent Christians and others who are not of their beliefs. Oh yeah, and the attempted genocide of every Jew in Israel, a genocide that is codified in Hamas’ very own charter, one that has been stopped thanks to the Iron Dome and the destruction of the terror tunnels, which were built for an actual genocide.

I can go on and on about how all of the pro-Palestinian rallies have signs that say “Death to Jews” and praise Hitler, and why Jews everywhere are now targets of hate crimes, hate incidents, vandalism and murder. I could … but I have jokes to write. Because I’m trying to make the world a better place with laughter. Sadly, we now live in a world full of people who love to hate, more than they love to laugh.

Visitor Comments: 89

(66)
Elea,
September 14, 2014 3:00 PM

Unacceptable behaviour in a civilised nation

Today I followed a car that had 'Ban Israel' on the boot - this was in Australia - I pulled up behind the man and got out - I politely told him this was not acceptable in our nation - he was a Muslim - we had a long & wearisome argument - he was full of misinformation, weird theories & outright lies. I am not Jewish ( I'm Christian) and I will not stand by and let these things happen without making these people feel uncomfortable for polluting our peaceful nation with their hate against Israel and Jews. If it's any comfort there are many people like me, world wide - who will not tolerate antisemitism.

(65)
Ariel,
September 7, 2014 4:08 AM

Sad commentary on the world

Since the end of WW2 and the Shoah, Jews have been living in an unprecedented bubble of freedom and tolerance in the West. That bubble is bursting and the old habits are returning; it's going to get a lot worse. Time to make aliyah...

(64)
Carmen,
September 6, 2014 5:02 AM

I be praying for you and your family that God will protect you and your family from any harm. Standing with you and Israel.

(63)
Pauline,
September 5, 2014 11:18 PM

So sorry for what those thugs put your family through. (And I live in Los Angeles too.) The people that mentioned learning to use and carry a gun have a point. But less drastic, and more kosher for not carrying anything on Shabbat, is another idea for you and your family's personal safety, while still living your life how you'd like. How about the family learning Jujitsu? You don't need to carry anything, and one can begin learning while young or much older (as I did), and it is not about size or having strength (although that can help). Many moves are taught to wheelchair bound people. It is ineffective to use this to provoke violence, as the moves are only effective when someone else is moving in to attack you. Then it's quite effective. You basically redirect the attacker's movement/energy from hurting you, into them getting themselves hurt in the process. If you want/need to hurt/stop them further, you then have more Jujitsu options at that point. It's good exercise, and it also helps teach how to fall safer, so you reduce injury if you fall, (something also good to know as we age and may accidentally fall for other reasons). Of course, it'd be best not to need to care about this, but as long as people hate, we do have to.

(62)
Shimmy W,
September 4, 2014 10:58 PM

love you

Hi Elon,

Saw you in Israel at comedy for Coby. what an amazing set. I liked your article except for the part of it being worse in Israel. This is the safest place for any Jew and you have lots of fans here...so come join us sooner than later

(61)
Anonymous,
September 4, 2014 4:44 PM

These guys are choice

I love the way these people drive around in their mercedes while their "brothers" etc.. are starving and victimized by their fellows. I love the way they benefit from us and then turn around and hate us. Way to go.

(60)
Anonymous,
September 3, 2014 2:33 AM

Learn to defend yourself

Mr. Gold:I was very moved by your story. My take away is that you owe it to yourself and your children to learn to defend yourself. Krav Maga, Judo, Karate. Whatever. If you show fear, you only feed the beast in these people. If you show strength and confidence, and you know you can defend yourself, they are more likely to back off. And if they don't you MUST defend yourself. Teach this to your children -- we Jews must be strong. Our enemies detest weakness and will run in the face of our strength. Be strong. Be safe.

(59)
Katherine Jobe,
September 2, 2014 7:36 PM

Your article is so profound. We are living in such scary times. It is so difficult to understand how someone can possess such hatred in their hearts to the extent to want to kill; to separate ones soul from ones body (and rejoice in it). Hamas and ISIS are like the "walking dead", not really living, just existing to spread evil as far as they can.

(58)
Zamira Rajchgod,
September 2, 2014 7:18 PM

Make aliya

Maybe it's time for you and your family to make aliya, Elon. It's better to live in Eretz Israel than the USA now-a-days, there is no anit-semitism here.

(57)
Rafael,
September 2, 2014 2:16 PM

Protect your family better and know your neighborhood. We are at war

If you are Jewish or Middle Eastern today ... You are the stars of today's news. Attacks and harassment on both camps should be expected. If your family is dressed in Jewish garb make sure you know what neighborhoods your parading around. If the hate of Zionism has spread to semitism , it can only help unite the tribes. Many many Jews are indifferent to Zionist agenda . World wide blind hate may be YHVH demanding Jews to close ranks. It doesn't make sence that Middlle Easterners would threaten all Jews when so many are opposed the creation of Israel. Orthodox Jewish organizations like Natuere Karte opposed to the Jewish state are thrown into the fires with Zionist. These Islamic idiots have succeeded where Israel has failed . They have defined all Jews as being the same! I always thought it was smarter to divide and conquer. I'm sure there is material here you can use for comic satire.

(56)
Jack,
September 2, 2014 1:58 PM

A comment

We all together have one father, God. Peace has the begining in our heart.Feelings can mislead and should be kept under control.But we are together one family of one father, everybody should understand this simple truth. God bless you all

(55)
nightmare,
September 2, 2014 2:25 AM

DANGEROUSLY WRONG AND UNPREPARED

1-Like fire drills teach your children to run away.In this instance you should have had a weapon. When the car stopped order your children to run in the opposite direction. Once the door is being opened fire your weapon. You are obligated to protect your children. NEVER AGAIN

alan,
September 5, 2014 4:41 AM

In This Country?

For this to happen in this Country, I totally agree with this response. Protect your family first and have them run as soon as the car stops. As soon as they get out and confront, start shooting. Assume the worst!!!!

(54)
Ari Fried,
September 1, 2014 11:17 PM

When your children are attacked it's a whole different story.

To protect your children in the future get the license plate and tell the cops they threatened to kill you even if they only said they hope somebody kills you. It's close enough and you know they would they could. They could be a sleeper cell. Putting them on the police radar is always a good idea.
Also apply for a gun license & learn how to use a gun.
Teach your kids how to defend themselves with Karate or judo or boxing. These thugs need to be put in their place.
If you do all of the above & if you ever get threatened again you can blow them away if you feel threatened- better them than you or your kids.

(53)
Anonymous,
September 1, 2014 9:47 PM

A comment

Mr. Gold,After reading your post I am saddened to see these hatred expressions invading the US.I was born in Mexico and now I am proudly an American Citizen.Since 9/11 I thought that all these is happening because the US is still too naive in allowing citizens from all over the world to live in this blessed country and that 9/11 happened because those who hate the US and want its destruction are taking advantage of such privilege.They do not deserve being in the Land of the Free. They do not know what those words mean.I hope the USCIS becomes more thorough while asking the questions previous to the Oath Ceremony.NOT anyone should be a US citizen only those who have high moral standards.

(52)
logan,
September 1, 2014 9:24 PM

"hate crime" vs "nothing."

When something happens to blacks, everything is classified as a "hate crime," when it's done to whites, it's just a crime, and when a Jew is a victim, it counts as nothing.

(51)
CDR Rafi Perez,
September 1, 2014 8:48 PM

We need to be vigilant.

We need to stand alongside our only allies in the Middle East . YSRAEL .

(50)
Bob Kirk,
September 1, 2014 5:52 PM

Sorry his kids had to see and feel the hate. A true threat aided by the media. Hating Israel and hating Jews is the same.

Very ironic also that a comedian who likes to see people laugh should see and feel such hatred so close. I hope Mr. Gold uses this to continue speaking out against anti-Semitism and help alert other Jews who feel so safe and comfortable in nice, quiet middleclass communities that the hate is still there. It is a rude awakening but it is reality.

(49)
Anonymous,
September 1, 2014 5:01 PM

Naivety or Denial...?

‎‎...stunned.....appalled....‎

Are you seriously this 'insulated' from our actual 'situation', ‎‎'here' in 'these United States'...? ‎

Why? ‎

Because you don't 'see' the trains - yet? Hearing them isn't ‎enough for you to 'register' their portent?‎

Have you not been watching the spread of Islam, and the ‎implementation of Sharia law in counties/states in 'these ‎United States'?‎

Have you not witnessed the 'silent coup' that the ‎corporations have wrought upon the American 'Constitution' ‎and her government? ‎

Have you not witnessed the 'change in the wind' in the ‎Supreme Court rulings? ‎

What could possibly lead you to believe that anti-Semitism - ‎death and brutality - happening in the E.U., 'cannot' happen ‎in these U.S.?‎

More and more 'Americans' - whose education is slack-to-‎none in 'current history', let alone world history/'ancient' ‎history - are being swayed by the 'rhetoric' of the media, as well as other as equally ignorant misinformed and misdirected.

This is increasing. Not abating. ‎

Where do you imagine all this is headed?‎

The Jews of 1939 could not 'conceive' that 'their countries' ‎could 'look the other way' - let alone 'kill' them. But they ‎did.‎

The Holocaust CAN happen again. ‎

Not because of anti-Semitism.

But because Jews continue to ‎live in the denial that it 'can't happen again'. This is all the ‎‎'liberty' needed to sow the seeds of a new holocaust. ‎

Just because it will not unfold in the same ways as the last, ‎does not mean there are not 'warnings'.‎

‎What is different now...?

We have Israel. ‎

Why are you living in any other country? ‎

If you have the ability to make aliyah - then make aliyah. ‎

Go home to Israel. Do it for those of us who are 'not able' to make the journey.‎

Anonymous,
September 2, 2014 4:58 PM

To no. 49

You are absolutely correct...We are witnessing significant changes,, And we better start "waking up" and do something... We need to raise awareness about what is beginning to unfold in the White house and rolling down to our streets...

(48)
Anonymous,
September 1, 2014 4:52 PM

Speak Up

We need to speak up, publicly, in magazine and newspaper editorials; and try to get together with the Muslim and Arab people here in the U.S. and around the world; to educate each other and the rest of the world as to how much we have in common and how we need to work together to tell Hamas and any other would be murderer to back off or go to jail. Democracy is for all; we have always led the way; let's be more vocal about it.

(47)
Anonymous,
September 1, 2014 3:16 PM

I wish more people would read history and they would know that! Am I and you the not he who know this? There is no more Canaan NIR a real live Palestinian, but the Arab invents war,because it supports their idiosyncrasies of being able to 'dominate

(46)
Rafael,
September 1, 2014 2:53 PM

What you wear is a shout out to everyone

Skin heads, Black Muslims, Indians with dots on their foreheads, visiblly tattooed people are letting you know who they are. They are intentionally distinguishing themselves from the population. If you want to avoid confrontations with low class people don't display your philosophy with your cloths. If I wear a T shirt with a picture of Che Guevara and walked into an All Amreican sports bar, there is a fair chance of me getting beat up ( if they know who Che is!) You can still believe what you want but don't broadcast it- even in the USA. That goes for everyone... Not just Jews. There are disenfranchised people on the street just looking for confrontation ( in this case Middle Eastern thugs). This is ignorance at its finest There is no chance of a debate with microphones on the street so why not avoid the whole thing . The other alternative is to be prepared for next time and beat the hell out of them.

Mike,
September 1, 2014 8:40 PM

agree

The question is, if this is such, why would you want to live in such a place when you can live in the holy land of Israel where you can dress as a Jew the way you want. And nobody is going to care either way, if you wear a kippah or you don't.

What strikes me most is that those people are maybe not so poor if they have a Mercedes SUV (or it's rented or stolen...?)

What I also wonder about, is with all the 'liberty', maybe in 10 years it will be illegal to even make such a complaint because of 'political correctness'

Jenny,
September 2, 2014 3:20 AM

Do NOT Judge

Do NOT judge people . It is rude and you sir are are in fact distancing yourself from everyone else. Those "Indians with dots on their foreheads " and " visibly tattooed people" are some of your biggest supporters in this world. And guess what, because of the recent rise of Muslims , a lot of "skinheads" are also now supporting you , the Jews. Good job alienating so many people that have been involved in public support and counter protests against the pro Palestine masses , both in AMERICA AND AROUND THE WORLD. I really can't spend any more time on this I have a show to produce and several groups to run ALL PRO ISRAEL , oh and BTW I am heavily tattooed and it has nothing to do with hate, It is simply my life story brought back to life in the form of ink on skin.. Stop judging people , that's God's place to do and he corrects those of us that go astray. God Bless Israel and her people!

(45)
Anonymous,
September 1, 2014 12:36 PM

Ugly confrontation

Hate incident or freedom of speech?

Alan S.,
September 1, 2014 1:49 PM

Let it happen to you anonymous, and we'll see how you classify it.

Just like you can't yell "fire" in a crowded theater if there is no fire -- a definite sign of mental illness, there is a very big difference between a hate incident and freedom of speech.

(44)
Renee Spiegel,
September 1, 2014 6:49 AM

We are not save anywhere very scary...to many of those hatred I people all over ....GOD bless the children of ISRAEL....AMEN

(43)
Anonymous,
September 1, 2014 6:01 AM

cont. from below:

Neither of these peoples remain. If the anti-Semites can use the story in the bible to “prove” we are invaders, they can also use the REASON why we took the Land from the Cana’an. G-d used Israel as His “hand” because they were an evil and perverse people (G-d said) since they burned their own children alive by tossing them into the fires of Molech and because of the sexual idolatrous perversions of worshipping their false gods. But anti-Semites only use the “invasion” as their justification of hatred of Israel as recorded in the bible and whitewash and ignore the perversions of the inhabitants and ignore the judgment of G-d who used Israel as His “hand.” (To be fair: It was also the “hand” of G-d who used the Hitler to destroy a Jewish Germany because we wanted to become like the Germans and turn from G-d’s mitzvot instead of being Jews and observe them. G-d had already warned us and promised that this would should that happen and He also promised not to destroy us completely when He does this to us.) Arab anti-Semites have cleverly use the media and the other anti-Semites of the world to achieve their goals of teaching anti-semitism throughout to justify “Palestinian” hatred and perversion while they themselves kill their own children, men, and women by using them as human sacrifices for their cause. They are spiritual reincarnations of the Cana’ani peoples.

(42)
Mati,
September 1, 2014 6:00 AM

The reincarnation of evil antisemitism

Just remember that there was never a country called Palestine and therefore there is no such thing as a Palestinian. The area renamed Palestine by the British occupiers after the Ottoman destruction gave both Jews and Arabs Palestinian identification cards with “Palestinian Jew” and “Palestinian Arab” identities. Thus both Israelis and Arabs were “Palestinian” and therefore both have rights to that name. The name of Palestine was borrowed by the British from the Romans who had renamed the area Palestinia after they destroyed us and spread us throughout the world. They had also renamed Jerusalem, “Aelia Capitolina.” Roman, Christian and then Muslim invaders eventually took over and squatted the Land with both Christian and Muslims alternating turns and invading and squatting the Land. Finally, the Ottoman Empire took over and Arabs were the most recent squatters. The Land had been Jewish for thousands of years before that. The ONLY reason why people accuse us as being “invaders” is because they believe the story in the bible of us invading Cana’an (which WE wrote and which were neither Arab nor Philishtim. (The Philistines were actually invaders from Crete and eastern Europe.)

(41)
Anonymous,
September 1, 2014 5:35 AM

Most Arabs understand power.

In my long experience, every time I have been confronted by Arab hatred because I am Jewish, I have made it a point to challenge them to an immediate "fight" or "debate." Their choice. No Arab either in college or later, has ever wanted to fight or debate. Now that I'm too old for the one on one (no knives or guns please) it hasn't been necesary. What seems to work is to confront the hate promptly and with adequate force and I believe it will go away. It is more a bullying tactic and disappears when it doesn't work.If you have any doubts about this, just look at Israel and how it responds to Arab violence and hate.

(40)
Anonymous,
September 1, 2014 5:14 AM

Thanks for sharing your story

Wish you and your family only safety and simchas, and may you find strength and peace for your family in Torah. To our dear American neighbours: IT'S ONLY GOING TO GET WORSE IN THE U.S. - you're not immune. Neither are we in Canada. It's happening ALL over. All over.

(39)
Annette,
September 1, 2014 5:08 AM

Crime Announces Itself - whether 'palestinians' or the media, THEY are what they say

we don't need to justify ourselveswe do need to be proactive, we do need to shut up more and defend ourselves; we will never be believed no matter how much we excuse and validate ourselves - standing firm on what 's right will show our integrity; and going after the media and the Regulatory bodies to enforce Truth and Integrity are upheld is where we need to pay lip service. Lots of it. Measure for measure.

(38)
Annie,
September 1, 2014 4:12 AM

What big, brave men they sound-I bet they're proud of themselves

What big brave men they sound-it must take a real man to confront a five year old and other small children-how courageous ! Like a fool, I have always thought that real men protected children. I would guess that they didn't intend any real harm, or they'd have done it, but that doesn't take away the terror. Where I live (New Zealand) gun controls are very strict and nobody can legally carry a handgun, but I'd have been terrified if I lived in the USA.

(37)
Ruth Broch,
September 1, 2014 3:57 AM

Living in Israel

I cannot understand why any of you Jews are still living in the Diaspora when you have a wonderful country of your own to come home to. I left the USA (NYC) over 44 years ago and still wake up every day thanking HaShem that I did so. I think you are fools to keep on living in what is now an extremely anti-Semitic and dangerous country. Your children deserve so much better. Let them come here and live a life with meaning, a land that belongs to them and not in a land in which you will always be a stranger.

Anonymous,
September 1, 2014 1:01 PM

Helping You To "Understand"

I am an American Jew, a lawyer, living in suburban Philadelphia. My wife is a second generation sabra from Jerusalem. We met a generation ago while I was a graduate student at the Hebrew University and she was in the IDF. We made our decision to live and raise our family in the States.

First of all, I resent you calling me a "fool" for choosing to live in the US. I have enormous love and pride for my country. And guess what? There is enough room for me to also feel enormous love and pride for Israel, without calling you a fool for living there. Sure, there are people in the US who hate Jews, but in Israel you are literally surrounded by hate, so your argument that for that reason Israel is a "better" place is nonsense.

For all its remarkable achievements, Israel needs the US and the billions in annual aid we provide, and needs Jews in the US in positions of wealth and power to insure the aid continues to flow. James Michener made this point 50 years ago in his great historical novel about the nation of Israel, "The Source." Every building of importance in Israel, whether a hospital or school, down to its last piece of furniture, has a plaque showing it was donated by a Jew in the diaspora. Trees in the forests of Jerusalem, ambulances for the MDA, recreational centers for your soldiers, fighter jets for your air force, the list goes on and on. They all originate in America.

You have every right to feel love and pride for Israel, but please show some appreciation for your fellow Jews who so generously contribute to your well being, if not your survival.

(36)
Benjamin,
September 1, 2014 3:09 AM

No parents anywhere wish their children terrorized

No parents want to have their children terrorized, whether bywords or by weapons/bombs/rockets, wherever they call home,including Israel and including Gaza. War is a failure and could often be avoided, IF both sides recognize the needs of one another, as a people. Seeking peace, with justice, not just temporary "quiet" is the challenge before us all, irregardless ofwho blames the other, who is "right".

(35)
G. Berry,
September 1, 2014 1:59 AM

I am so sorry you and your family went through this, Elon Gold. However, your well-intentioned "Imagine" about kids growing up in Israel probably scared your kids from ever wanting to live in Israel or even visit there! Next on your bucket list should be a family trip to Israel to show your kids that despite a hateful world, there is a place where Jews can call Home and live proudly and meaningfully and positively!

(34)
William (Tommy) Robbins,
September 1, 2014 1:30 AM

I hate it happened. All Jews want to do is live in peace.

I guess I put the comment in the wrong place. I hate it happened. All Jews want is to live in peace and not worry about being killed.

(33)
David Susen,
September 1, 2014 1:10 AM

home in Maine

If it ever gets as crazy as it has in other parts of the world you have a home in Maine where you will be hidden.....but....I think God may be calling you back to your home land. Hosea 3:4-5 - "For the Israelites will live many days without king or prince, without sacrifice or sacred stones, without ephod or idol. Afterward the Israelites will return and seek the LORD their God and David their king. They will come trembling to the LORD and to his blessings in the last days."

(32)
Ruth,
September 1, 2014 12:26 AM

So sorry your family had to go through this horror but it is more prevlanet than we admit.

I'm an attorney and saw a subject line on an attorney list serve that was so horrible I thought the site was hacked. it was not! a lawyer was 'bragging' that he helped a client fight an anti-Semitic supervisor in court. did he need to repeat the slurs the client faced? of course not! I protested his repeating them and not a single lawyer (imagine how many are Jewish on the listserve!) backed me up. not even one!

I asked if they would feel so free to use the "N" word with lynching on the same listserve.

I was told I was too sensitive, and of course others couldn't possibly be educated and anti-Semitic.

finally after a week or two the tide began to remotely turn in my favor and the 'moderator' who had been silent suddenly cut off the discussion.

what a time we live in! let's hope and pray that with the new year we will turn a corner and the pendulum will swing back in our favor.

(31)
Tsipi Ben-Haim,
September 1, 2014 12:16 AM

Don't let them win. Continue to make us lough....

I'm on a panel at the UN on antisemitism September 8 with Ambassador Ron Prosor. I wish you could come and share your story. I create peace walls with youth around the world and professional artists. Having your kids experience it is a golden opportunity to have them strive for Peace and do something ....

(30)
Michael Garfinkel,
August 31, 2014 11:36 PM

The Beast is Hungry

It's terrible that this innocent and decent family were victimized.

The author seems to think that a reasoned analysis is required, when in fact the ship of civil and reasoned analysis - as he finally acknowledges, has sailed.

These low-lifes have defined themselves through savagery, and they are pursuing savage ends. Next time, even in L.A., hateful words may be followed by an actual assault.

All reasonable, andindeed, some unreasonable preparations are required.

(29)
david,
August 31, 2014 9:37 PM

uh huh

They were filled with hate for sure. Not sure about ignorance. They feel how they feel and well...this is America...:)

While I think they are jerks....well....they can say what they want.

Anonymous,
September 1, 2014 2:54 PM

No, you're wrong: they can't say whatever they want . . .

Freedom of speech is not absolute. Like any right it has its limitations. The history of our Supreme Court is filed with cases which challenged those limitations. To use a trite example, we are not free to falsely shout "fire" in a crowded theater. Nor are we free, to use the example at hand, to threaten Mr. Gold and his family with death or serious bodily harm because we happen to disagree with the manner in which Israel defends itself.

(28)
martin,
August 31, 2014 9:17 PM

hate

The hatred in Europe can spread to the U.S.

(27)
Pastor luis Rafael Corchado,
August 31, 2014 9:13 PM

History repeats...

...because of the nincompoops as above: get a lawyer; self Defense? Our own Henry Ford was culpable in the early 40s for printing some 40,000 copies of the Protocols of Zion and distribute them here in the USA and in Europe, also the NYT was as guilty.

(26)
jeanette diss,
August 31, 2014 9:00 PM

lies and propaganda

How very true. Its about time the media reported the truth and not be a tool of these islamic murderers. G-d protect all jews.

(25)
nach Shon,
August 31, 2014 8:58 PM

why?

Do so many of us still support those politicians, that allow this to keep happening? Open borders, letting in 10s of 1000s of people we know hate America as well as Jews? Never Again. Any Jew not well armed is asking for a repeat of WWII

(24)
Adriana,
August 31, 2014 7:10 PM

that's very scary. but you were very wise and smart on how you handle it.

Israel is the state for the jews, i believe. 100 percent

(23)
SarahRachel,
August 31, 2014 7:00 PM

If You Stop Referring To Arabs as "Palestinian People"

The entire matter centers on this lie, that there is such a thing as a "Palestinian" people, and that they are native to "Palestine" and that Israel is occupying and slaughtering them.

Without this lie, the center cannot hold. It is the very basis for the entire conflict. It has been 50 years in the making and spreading, and now the entire world believes it. From THIS, there is justification to do anything violent to Jews, it's just fine.

Why is Israel continuing to spread the lie, negotiating with a non-existing entity, giving them land, throwing Jews off their own land, and abrogating the Temple Mount to them?

Because Israel is being run by the Erev Rav, and it is their intent to destroy Israel from the inside along with the Ishmaelites they are in bed with. It's been a long process, and now it is almost finished.

Every time a Jew refers to the "Palestinian people", he or she continues to help this constructed Arab "people" (created by Yassir Arafat in the 1960s) destroy Israel and murder Jews. STOP using the name "Palestinian" and start referring to what they really are, which is a group of terrorist Arabs. Period. If you don't do this, then you're helping the lie spread and you're helping Jews die. Period.

(22)
Yehuda Poch,
August 31, 2014 6:54 PM

Come Home - For Real

There are many ways in which Hashem hints to people what must be done. This is one such way. Elon - COME HOME, where your children can feel safe (YES! They DO!) and where there are an army, soldiers, police officers, and a government to protect you and your Jewish family from such hate. The comments following this post also mostly miss the point. If you need a lawyer or a gun to protect your right to be Jewish, then the US is not your home. There are plenty of reasons to move to Israel and make it your home in fact rather than just in thought. This is one of the uglier reasons, but it is a reason that is becoming more and more prevalent - even in the US and Canada. The Rabbi in Miami is just another proof.

Anonymous,
September 1, 2014 4:01 PM

I think it's you who misses the point.

There is no safe haven for anyone in this world, including Jews. I am an American Jew. I don't have to worry about having 15 seconds to reach a bomb shelter, or abandoning my home because it's too close to a hostile border, or riding a bus or eating in a pizzeria which might be targeted by a suicide bomber. The world is a dangerous place no matter where we live, but to suggest that Jews in Israel enjoy an immunity is nonsense.

(21)
Amira,
August 31, 2014 6:47 PM

as an proud Israeli Jew i find your comfort quite insulting

as someone who has lived in the country you just comforted you children with, i find this very insulting.you want them to turn around and say- Thank G-D i don't live in Israel?at least here in the "safe" USA- it's not a daily thing????really?? really??

i am so sorry you had to go through something like that, as a Jew and as a human being- no one should EVER be hated just because of who they are.but we, the people of Israel are so amazingly blessed to live here. and the Jews who are not zoche (זוכה) to be here should mourn that fact! (as people have been doing for generation)not use it as a comforting line for their children.i wake up in Israel with my child knowing that he will bezrat Hashem grow up in the most amazing, most beautiful, most holy and really most safe place in the world for the Jews!Hashem has his eyes on Israel all the time- and that is something that can not be replaced by any comfort- and is the most comforting thing in this world!may you never experience this type of thing ever gain.and i personally hope that all Jews will understand that there is no better, safer, holier place then right here in our gorgeous amazing Eretz Israel!!!!

maybe your child would be comforted in the reality that is Israel- not the fear that is seen on the media but the joy that is to be a Jew in the land of our history, a jew that is part and living among Am Israel- in a way that hasn't been possible for so long and isn't possible ANYWHERE ELSE.That is real comfort!!

The USA has always been anti-Semitic. History shows that and continues to this very day.

(18)
Anonymous,
August 31, 2014 5:42 PM

Thank You for Your Story

Thank you for your story. I watched one of your sets at an event in Phoenix about a year ago. I am sorry that you and your family had to go through this. May Hashem watch over you, your family, all of Israel, and the Jewish people and stop all those who conspire against us.

(17)
Otis R. Needleman,
August 31, 2014 5:31 PM

Get a lawyer.

Then have the lawyer help you get a concealed-weapons carry permit. Difficult in Los Angeles, but not impossible. Stop whining and start acting.

Meira Shana,
August 31, 2014 9:33 PM

"Stop whining ..."

Otis R Needleman - shame on you!

If you can't be part of the solution, please don't be a continuance of the problem.

I no whining from the author of the article -- I do, however, hear your small voice of fear for your own self.

Shame on you!

Otis R. Needleman,
September 2, 2014 7:51 PM

Fear? What a joke!

I make use of my Second Amendment rights. So should every other American.

(16)
Anonymous,
August 31, 2014 5:23 PM

Self Defense

I can only imagine the terror you felt when confronted by these thugs. Recalling the example of the rabbi who was gunned down on shabbos in Miami, it would not have been unreasonable for you to assume that these four peaceniks meant you and your family severe bodily harm. Like you said, they were not there to debate. Anyway, there are tools out there for you to defend yourself and your family, so if there ever is a next time, be prepared, think of Clint Eastwood, and make your day.

(15)
Dina,
August 31, 2014 5:19 PM

TIME TO GO HOME!

Please take what happened as handwriting on your family's wall, a warning sign to get out of America and GO HOME to the only place you and your loved ones really belong: Israel!

alan,
August 31, 2014 6:03 PM

Ashamed for you Dina

I cannot believed you are an American and could write this Dina. You are the one who does not deserve to live in this Country. Where were you on 9/11? Those were not Israelis or people of the Jewish faith who bombed this Country. The people in Gaza were celebrating our families deaths that day and holding up signs saying Death to America. I think you should pack up and GO HOME to GAZA, put on their clothing that they mandate for their women which from what you wrote is where you belong. For Shame!!

rachele,
September 1, 2014 3:30 AM

huh?

I do not understand your comment. Dina appears to be an Israeli reminding us to consider aliyah.

Ester Mina Silinsky,
August 31, 2014 6:23 PM

Dina, you are SO right!!!!

We are waiting here in Israel for our brothers and sisters with open arms!

rachel,
September 2, 2014 12:43 AM

not realistic for ever american jew

I get tired of reading this from Israelis. Some of us have elderly relatives or are retired ouurselves. We are not eligible, understandably, for Israeli heathcare, social security, etc. I doubt Israel would want to take us all in, esp non-hebrew-speakers. Immigration is realistic for the young, not so much for older people.

ESTERMINA,
September 4, 2014 5:52 PM

MY 90 YR OLD MOTHER JUST MADE ALIYA

Rachel, your are happily misinformed!! I don't where you got your info from, but it's wrong - go to your local ALIYA office and get the facts - Israel is for every Jew!

AL,
August 31, 2014 8:08 PM

"TIME TO GO HOME" !! ??

Dina, 'TIME FOR YOU TO GO HOME', but just half way !!

soraya,
September 1, 2014 6:17 PM

non white non western

Dina - I think one of the biggest stumbling blocks to Jews coming home to us here in Israel is the concept tht they think they are 'white' 'western' and American, or British, or whatever the current host country is. And they're not white, and not really western, and not really American, British, European etc. They're Jewish fullstop. And once here, they'll be Israeli, fullstop. As soon as Diaspora Jews acknowledge that simple fact, their path is wide open to coming back because the other side of the coin is admitting you're a guest in a host country with an expiration date on your guest date. I fail to see how shielding kids from the reality of being Jewish in diaspora countries helps them at all. I also wish all our fellow Jews scattered world wide would just come home. What an amazing presence that would be here!

(14)
Regina,
August 31, 2014 5:16 PM

So sorry...

Just want to cry having read this

(13)
Lynn K. Circle,
August 31, 2014 5:14 PM

If I were faced with a similar situation in Houston, Texas, I would have reacted differently. As a licensed concealed weapon carrier, I would have pulled out my gun, told him he poses an imminent threat to my life, and if he did not immediately turn around and get back in his car, I would shoot him.

Of course in Los Angeles it is illegal for law-abiding citizens to carry a concealed firearm. So, if the people in the car chose to take out knives and slaughter the writer's children, all he could have done would have been to tear out his hair while screaming in anguish. I think he is very lucky that sort of scenario really did not happen.

I am also very thankful I live in a state where protecting oneself against a violent attack is not a felony.

Anonymous,
August 31, 2014 8:18 PM

Concealed weapon permit ..

I also have a 'CWP' and routinely carry here in Oregon.Being in my 60's, I have been subjected to bigotry my entire life. At the early age of 6, a neighbor confronted our family at our front door and exclaimed "dirty Jew" !! From there on, in one form or another, it followed me. I would have never considered 'carrying' in to Synagogue, but this year, I will 'carry' to High Holidays for good self conscience.

(12)
Weisntein,
August 31, 2014 4:49 PM

Sorry to hear of the "incident" but what an outstanding article you have written in response ? I will be sharing it with everyone.

(11)
soraya,
August 31, 2014 4:49 PM

Hosted

"I was stunned that I can no longer feel safe walking on Shabbat with my family in my city." "I feel so sad that my children’s innocence was lost at that very moment." While I'm sorry for the angst you endured, please remember that (1) LA is not your home. You are no more than a tolerated guest in a host country that is not yours. (2) Had you been here standing with us in Israel and actively building your real home, your kids would have been far more aware of what the world out there is like, the authentic views on Jews, and would have most likely done what our kids here do: buckle down and DO something about it. Those who choose not to see, who choose to keep their heads under sand like the proverbial ostrich, will also not see the parallels to early Nazism, when German Jews were SURE that their cultured 'home' country would never turn on them in any way. Perhaps it's time, indeed, to come on home.

(10)
Yossi,
August 31, 2014 4:25 PM

To #1

Are you kidding me? Move to ISRAEL? Why, there is no Jew-hatred there? There are no Middle Eastern people stepping out of cars, or ONTO your car, to actually kill you?

Why, so Jewish people can keep running away? You like to run, don't you. Moving to Israel is not a solution to the problem he is sharing now. Wake up, dude.

(9)
A on,
August 31, 2014 4:23 PM

I'm sorry

I am sorry that happened to your family and your kids were understandably scared. To me that sounded like a hate crime ,to inflict fear upon others! You write eloquently about why we Jews have always been in the right . Sadly, there is no rhyme or reason for hate . It is our lot as Jews to be hated .. To be hated simply because we stand for goodness and doing what is right in the world. Why did G d place us in a world where others hate us even though we have done nothing to provoke their hate? I don't know. Perhaps anti semitism somehow strengthens our unity somehow in that we as Jews know Hadhem's truth is the truth . We know that we have the right to live and defend ourselves. We know we are irrationally attacked and condemned wherever we live. We don't need the world to accept this truth. Righteous people (like John Voight and righteous Gentiles )will stand up for goodness . Those that choose to hate and be evil we cannot change / the only thing we can do is continue to stand up for what is good and not to give up or give in to those bent on hatred and evil

(8)
samsense,
August 31, 2014 4:17 PM

license plate?

Did you get their plate number? Can't be educated if can't be identified.

(7)
Linda Miller,
August 31, 2014 3:53 PM

You are not alone

Over the past many weeks since the Gaza conflict ignited, I've written to both news organizations and politicians about the twisted coverage and their role in facilitating this deadly propaganda. I've asked why we do not know how many children have died transversing Mexico, why among the more than 180,000 people slaughtered in Syria, we are not told how many were children and women. Why is it that we are not told how children are among those slaughtered in Mosul and Nigeria. No one provides these answers. I've openly stated that the blood of Gaza's children drips from the fingers of media and political personnel because their collaboration in such perverted reporting GUARANTEES more of Palestine's children will die to support the propaganda war. I am not a Jew; I am only an American. And I cannot sit in silence while this outrageous anti-Semitism spreads across the world. If we remain silent, it will visit us ALL--each and every one. I am appalled at what happened to your family; please know, you are not alone! You have much support and many friends whom you've never even met.

(6)
Anonymous,
August 31, 2014 3:32 PM

Why hasn't this been seen on the news channels, heard on radio news and in newspapers? Radical muslims have been coming through our porous borders posing as Mexicans for years.

(5)
Julie,
August 31, 2014 3:22 PM

Thoughts

I read your article and it was so eloquent and very troubling . I am truly sorry your children and you & your wife were treated with such hatred . I love Israel , I have my entire life and I am a Christian . I will keep you and your family in my thoughts

(4)
Ashley,
August 31, 2014 3:20 PM

Our self worth and everything we are comes from H-Shem

Thanks for your story Elon. I have a similar story although I live in South Africa. I am not an extremist but I know for certain that I either make aliya (which isn't as easy Mike implies as my husband's ailing parents need us and have needed us for the past few years) or I leave a refugee. We are truly living through the 'ingathering of the exiles'...countries are pushing us to leave. The world doesn't want us - they cannot be our standard for morality (really, has there ever been something called 'civilization' if we look at the history of the world!?) or for Truth. And most importantly for children to know - they do not determine our self worth. The lesson for our kids is that everything we are as Jews and our self worth comes from H-shem and NO ONE else (we have put so much faith in democracy, logic, intelligence....H-Shem is showing us it means nothing).

(3)
Loretta,
August 31, 2014 3:18 PM

What Does That Mean?

Easily identifiable as Jewish. Why, Were you wearing a yarmulke ? Remember, German Jews thought they were German. They assimilated, fought for the Kaiser, were there for hundreds of years and it meant? Bubkas. What's important here is that NotOne Important Jewish Person in the Entertainment Industry has the balls to speak up. I believe they think by following the "Bumper Stockers" they will be spared. Didn't happen during WW2 and Will Happen Again. Remember in Crown Heights an Italian was mistaken for Jewish and murdered. We are in this Together People! Have the words Never Forget been completely forgotten? We Must Stand Side by Side With Israel for the future of the World.

(2)
bernard,
August 31, 2014 3:07 PM

Let your children know that the only way to fight their hate to to love. And the we are in this together. We will protect our children because we need to regrow a lost generation. We will love and protect your children no matter where we are in world. Your precious ones are our children also. May you have a year of health and love for your family and peace for the entire world.

(1)
Mike,
August 31, 2014 7:13 AM

You could tell your audiences

-that the Palestianian movement had in fact deep ties to the Nazis-that it is worthwhile to go to Israel and live there-you could broadcast from Israel

Don't be fooled. This time the system worked. But let me ask you, if the system works so well, how come all those "peace-lovers" get to live in your country.

What if 10 years down the line YOU will be blamed for hate-speech/a hate-incident when you speak up about Palestinians or even about people who insult you like those people in the car. (and by the way, those aren't poor people either if they can afford a Mercedes SUV).It already happens in Europe.

If I may say this, from your name you seem to be of Israeli origin. What exactly are you doing in America? Isn't it time to connect to your roots and to practice what you preach?When you quote from the Tanach, the Jewish holy scripture, don't you think that all of it is important, not just one section of psalms. Don't you think all of them are important. If Torah/Tanach has meaning it is a good idea to start keeping Shabbat, at least to begin by not doing certain things and reading from the Torah. There is a lot that may be surprising.

Daniel,
August 31, 2014 3:41 PM

Hate Incident: Just the beginning

Elon thank you writing and explaining to us across the world that have yet to directly feel the hatred - how dangerous, scary and imminent the antisemitism is. I wish your children could regain their innocence and pray that the Jewish nation rises to the challenge and danger to do our utmost.

Mike - We certainly can find insight into our times in the Torah and have a homeland in Israel., but I am not sure your comments are appropriate for the moment.

Lyone,
August 31, 2014 3:52 PM

Wow Mike

Not sure why you are so angry at Elon. Seems like you are blaming HIM for the hateful actions of others, and that seems a little backwards to me.

Elon is not single handedly responsible for the immigration policies of the United States.

Also, you seem to make a lot of assumptions about him. I don't know the man, or where he was born, but Jews live all over the world--and have for thousands of years-- for many reasons. This article was not the place to discuss that topic.

Also, off topic where the other items you mentioned. When his kids are older (about college age) they can learn more about WWII history and the Nazi-Arab ties (there were no"Palestinians back then). ....And an entertainer does not control where his own performances are broadcast--all that is up to people who OWN and operate TV and other media outlets.

As for your last comment(s): just because someone quotes from one part of Tanach, does not mean he isn't familiar with the whole thing, and If you read more carefully you will see that he already does keep Shabbat--that is what he and his family were doing when they were accosted in the first place.

We need to support one another in times like this, not tear each other down. WE are the bricks of the third Temple, and it will never get built if we do not stick together.

Feigele,
August 31, 2014 4:38 PM

Our survival

No! not all Jews must live in Israel! It is imperative that there are Jews all over the world to avoid complete annihilation. We all have a part in our survival no matter where we live. This story is not only for us but it should be displayed all over the media for all to be made aware of their ignorance..

Mike,
August 31, 2014 9:55 PM

well

For me personally, the question is, was it a good idea for the Jews to live in Galut, ever. I have to say that this is from a biblical perspective. There is an account that you might find interesting (I did) http://ravkooktorah.org/ROSH_65.htmHashem surely wants us to live in the land that he gave us. It is like saying that we know better than God what we should be doing if we say that certain mitzvot are not actually right.I very much admire your devotion to the Jewish people.However the question is if the word of Hashem is true. I think it is, and I also think that the great tragedies that befell the Jewish people in the past (including the Holocaust) was because Jewish people were relying on their own wisdom (above all else failure to keep the mitzvot, including assimilation and refusal to move to Eretz Israel - let's be honest) rather than following Torah.

Israel has survived so far against all odds. Isn't that the hand of Hashem?

I just got married and have an important question: Can we eat rice on Passover? My wife grew up eating it, and I did not. Is this just a matter of family tradition?

The Aish Rabbi Replies:

The Torah instructs a Jew not to eat (or even possess) chametz all seven days of Passover (Exodus 13:3). "Chametz" is defined as any of the five grains (wheat, spelt, barley, oats, and rye) that came into contact with water for more than 18 minutes. Chametz is a serious Torah prohibition, and for that reason we take extra protective measures on Passover to prevent any mistakes.

Hence the category of food called "kitniyot" (sometimes referred to generically as "legumes"). This includes rice, corn, soy beans, string beans, peas, lentils, peanuts, mustard, sesame seeds and poppy seeds. Even though kitniyot cannot technically become chametz, Ashkenazi Jews do not eat them on Passover. Why?

Products of kitniyot often appear like chametz products. For example, it can be hard to distinguish between rice flour (kitniyot) and wheat flour (chametz). Also, chametz grains may become inadvertently mixed together with kitniyot. Therefore, to prevent confusion, all kitniyot were prohibited.

In Jewish law, there is one important distinction between chametz and kitniyot. During Passover, it is forbidden to even have chametz in one's possession (hence the custom of "selling chametz"). Whereas it is permitted to own kitniyot during Passover and even to use it - not for eating - but for things like baby powder which contains cornstarch. Similarly, someone who is sick is allowed to take medicine containing kitniyot.

What about derivatives of kitniyot - e.g. corn oil, peanut oil, etc? This is a difference of opinion. Many will use kitniyot-based oils on Passover, while others are strict and only use olive or walnut oil.

Finally, there is one product called "quinoa" (pronounced "ken-wah" or "kin-o-ah") that is permitted on Passover even for Ashkenazim. Although it resembles a grain, it is technically a grass, and was never included in the prohibition against kitniyot. It is prepared like rice and has a very high protein content. (It's excellent in "cholent" stew!) In the United States and elsewhere, mainstream kosher supervision agencies certify it "Kosher for Passover" -- look for the label.

Interestingly, the Sefardi Jewish community does not have a prohibition against kitniyot. This creates the strange situation, for example, where one family could be eating rice on Passover - when their neighbors will not. So am I going to guess here that you are Ashkenazi and your wife is Sefardi. Am I right?

Yahrtzeit of Rabbi Moses ben Nachman (1194-1270), known as Nachmanides, and by the acronym of his name, Ramban. Born in Spain, he was a physician by trade, but was best-known for authoring brilliant commentaries on the Bible, Talmud, and philosophy. In 1263, King James of Spain authorized a disputation (religious debate) between Nachmanides and a Jewish convert to Christianity, Pablo Christiani. Nachmanides reluctantly agreed to take part, only after being assured by the king that he would have full freedom of expression. Nachmanides won the debate, which earned the king's respect and a prize of 300 gold coins. But this incensed the Church: Nachmanides was charged with blasphemy and he was forced to flee Spain. So at age 72, Nachmanides moved to Jerusalem. He was struck by the desolation in the Holy City -- there were so few Jews that he could not even find a minyan to pray. Nachmanides immediately set about rebuilding the Jewish community. The Ramban Synagogue stands today in Jerusalem's Old City, a living testimony to his efforts.

It's easy to be intimidated by mean people. See through their mask. Underneath is an insecure and unhappy person. They are alienated from others because they are alienated from themselves.

Have compassion for them. Not pity, not condemning, not fear, but compassion. Feel for their suffering. Identify with their core humanity. You might be able to influence them for the good. You might not. Either way your compassion frees you from their destructiveness. And if you would like to help them change, compassion gives you a chance to succeed.

It is the nature of a person to be influenced by his fellows and comrades (Rambam, Hil. De'os 6:1).

We can never escape the influence of our environment. Our life-style impacts upon us and, as if by osmosis, penetrates our skin and becomes part of us.

Our environment today is thoroughly computerized. Computer intelligence is no longer a science-fiction fantasy, but an everyday occurrence. Some computers can even carry out complete interviews. The computer asks questions, receives answers, interprets these answers, and uses its newly acquired information to ask new questions.

Still, while computers may be able to think, they cannot feel. The uniqueness of human beings is therefore no longer in their intellect, but in their emotions.

We must be extremely careful not to allow ourselves to become human computers that are devoid of feelings. Our culture is in danger of losing this essential aspect of humanity, remaining only with intellect. Because we communicate so much with unfeeling computers, we are in danger of becoming disconnected from our own feelings and oblivious to the feelings of others.

As we check in at our jobs, and the computer on our desk greets us with, "Good morning, Mr. Smith. Today is Wednesday, and here is the agenda for today," let us remember that this machine may indeed be brilliant, but it cannot laugh or cry. It cannot be happy if we succeed, or sad if we fail.

Today I shall...

try to remain a human being in every way - by keeping in touch with my own feelings and being sensitive to the feelings of others.

With stories and insights,
Rabbi Twerski's new book Twerski on Machzor makes Rosh Hashanah prayers more meaningful. Click here to order...